January 7, 2002

Detroit Auto Show
Dodge Razor
Lightweight, no-frills sports car concept emphasizes driving pleasure

DaimlerChrysler Senior Vice President, Design Trevor Creed took the wraps off of the Dodge Razor concept during the vehicle's world-debut for media at the North American International Auto Show today. Photo: Joe Wilssens. Click image to enlarge

Detroit, Michigan - A joint effort between the Chrysler Group design studios in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and Carlsbad, California, the Dodge Razor concept sports coupe is a lightweight, minimally-equipped sports car that offers 0 to 60 mph performance in the sub 6 second range.

The Razor's exterior was developed by designers Akino Tsuchiya and Kevin Verduyn, while its interior was executed by Chris Schuttera and John Sodano.

"Dodge Razor has a simple shape with every line offering an abundance of emotion and purpose," said Tsuchiya. "Razor's dramatic proportions scream 'I'm bold, I'm powerful, I'm Dodge'. The in-your-face 'Orange Slice' body colour reflects the same attitude." Adds Verduyn: "Working off an all-new platform, we could create extreme proportions. The long hood, high sills, wide body, narrow greenhouse and low centre of gravity all indicate secure, protective performance."

To keep the Dodge Razor affordable should it ever reach production, many 'off-the-shelf' corporate suspension and underbody components were used. While the six-speed manual transmission was developed in Stuttgart, Germany, the engine is an upgraded version of Chrysler Group's 2.4-litre inline DOHC four-cylinder, now with a turbocharger and intercooler. The engine develops 250 horepower and 230 lb.-ft. of torque. Aimed at young driving enthusiasts, the Razor concept was designed with a targeted sticker price of US $14,500.

Click image to enlarge

Searching for a name that reflected the car's energy and attitude, the Chrysler Group approached Razor USA to form a licensing partnership with the trendsetting and youthful Razor brand. Reflecting the design attitude of the popular Razor kick scooter, the design of the Dodge Razor suggests forward motion even when the concept is parked on an auto show turntable. It seems to be leaping ahead, with its rear wheels larger than the already massive front wheels. Its signature Dodge crosshair grille sits solidly on the front spoiler, while the exhaust tips are incorporated into the rear air deflector.

True to minimalist form, Dodge Razor's only ornamentations are the chrome bumpers, the racing-style billet-aluminum gas cap, the classic door handles and mirrors and the jewel-like lamp design. "This project really is about the power of purpose and purity," said Verduyn.

The same holds true for the interior. It offers the necessities for driving, nothing more. No power windows or mirrors, no radio or leather power seats, no frills whatsoever. Dodge Razor offers its two occupants lightweight, competition-style seats, four-point racing harnesses, storage behind their seats and the pure joy of driving. "Razor's interior is like a clean canvas. Our vision is that you would be able to get additional features through MOPAR to paint your ideal driving setting," said interior designer Schuttera.

The Dodge Razor's instrument cluster has an integrated tachometer/speedometer with analogue reading of the revs and a digital read-out of the speed. This compact unit is flanked by easy-to-read gauges for temperature/oil pressure and fuel/battery. The interior is finished in body colour and extruded aluminum.

"We feel passionate about keeping it simple and honest," said Sodano. "Razor has a focused driver's interior, enhancing the experience of raw power as only a sports car can."

Click image to enlarge

Preliminary Specifications

Powertrain

Engine: 2.4-litre I-4 turbocharged w/intercooler
Estimated Power: 250 bhp.
Estimated Torque: 230 lb.-ft.
Transmission: Six-speed manual transmission
Drive: Rear-wheel drive

Body & Suspension

Structure: Lightweight steel unibody Suspension